What Happens When TMJ Disorder Develops?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is more common than many people realize, but patients who have it don’t always know. Unlike more common conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease, the symptoms of the disorder can vary from patient to patient. Therefore, recognizing your aches and pains as a sign of the jaw dysfunction can sometimes be difficult. Fortunately, patients in Oxnard, CA, can often find relief from TMJ disorder with highly customized treatment, such as an oral appliance that helps jaw joints heal in a minimally invasive manner.

The Important Role of Your TMJs
Your temporomandibular joints are the two joints located on either side of your jaw. They allow your lower jaw to open and close smoothly when you bite, chew, and speak. For them to function properly, both of your TMJs have to move together, which requires proper alignment and symmetry of your teeth, jaw, and oral structures.

When Jaw Function Goes Wrong
When one or more issues affect your bite’s alignment, your TMJs can’t operate as smoothly because they can’t contract at the same time. For example, if your teeth are crooked, some of them will meet each other before the rest. The TMJ on that side of your mouth has to continue to try to move until the teeth on the other side meet. This can exhaust one or both joints, leading to increasingly worse joint damage.

How We Can Help You Find Relief
When TMJ disorder develops, the resulting symptoms vary because the cause and severity differ for everyone. For instance, you may develop TMJ disorder because you unconsciously grind your teeth (a condition known as bruxism). If so, then an appliance could help you stop grinding your teeth and your dentist can restore your bite’s balance to relieve the stress on your jaws.

Put a Stop to TMJ Aches and Pains
Because TMJ symptoms can be different for everyone, treating yours will require a thorough examination and diagnosis. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Oxnard Dentistry in Oxnard, CA, today at (805) 604-9999. We also proudly serve patients from in and around Camarillo, Ventura, Thousand Oaks, Moore Park, and all surrounding communities.